Progress novel assets (one FTIH start) for non-tubercular mycobacteria (NTM) that may act synergistically with bedaquiline and cytochrome bc drugs

Topic description

Specific Challenge:

The Portfolio Building Network (PBN), Pillar C of the IMI2 JU AMR Accelerator programme, will address the limited pipeline of treatments and preventions for AMR infections by enabling vibrant and nimble collaborations between EFPIA companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and/or academics that will advance the R&D pipeline of new and innovative agents to address AMR.

The project goal is to develop and advance a portfolio of anti-NTM drugs that may be used in combination with bedaquiline and cytochrome bc inhibitors to shorten treatment regimens and improve safety and efficacy. The EFPIA partner’s internal assets as well as external compounds will be profiled alone and in combination. The scope of this topic will be to progress novel lead compounds by performing medicinal chemistry optimisation, in vitro and in vivo characterisation, as well as PK, toxicology studies, formulation and CMC (chemistry, manufacturing and controls) studies. The scope also includes implementation of phase 1 studies towards the development of novel NTM candidates.

The expected impact of actions selected under this Call will be to: (1) contribute to the development of a vibrant AMR research environment in the EU and strengthen the competitiveness and industrial leadership of Europe; (2) contribute to the EU’s ambition of being a ‘best practice region’ for addressing AMR; (3) enhance the overall pipeline of medicines for patients with AMR infections and advance new and innovative agents.